Nuwakot Durbar (Palace) - Sat Talle Durbar
History tells us that in the 18th century, Shri Panch Badamaharajadhiraj Prithvi Narayan Shah Dev was leading a unification campaign. After his victory over Nuwakot, he considered this place a suitable location to continue the campaign because returning to Gorkha after each battle and then beginning a new journey from there to attack other areas was too far and difficult. So, he built this palace as a rest stop along the way. This Durbar is located in Bidur Municipality of Nuwakot, Nepal.
The Durbar was damaged by the earthquake of 2072 BS. After the incident, it was left unrepaired and continued to deteriorate over time. However, the Chinese government has now taken responsibility for its restoration, and a Chinese team is currently working on the repairs. I felt glad to see this restoration effort underway.
Map of route
Click here to view full route in Google Maps.
Here we can see routes to reach our destination. We can go via the Tokha Chhahare Route, the Kakani Route, or the Galchhi Route. I think the Tokha route is the fastest. I’ve already described this route in my blog post about my Dupcheshwor trip, which you can read by clicking here. We actually visited both places on the same trip. Initially, we planned to visit only the Dupcheshwor Temple, but later decided to extend our trip to include this destination as well. You can also visit both places in Nuwakot in a single day, just start your journey early in the morning.
Transportation
Transportation facility also same as Dupcheshwor Trip. You can catch a bus or microbus from Machchhapokhari, Balaju, or Samakhusi Chowk. Most buses to Nuwakot depart from the Machchhapokhari Bus Park. There are multiple routes to Nuwakot, including via Galchhi, Kakani, and Tokha.
If you have your own vehicle or are renting one, you can easily reach there by following Google Maps or asking locals for directions. The route is straightforward.
Route via Tokha Route
The journey up to the Chaugadha bridge is almost the same, so I don’t think I need to explain it again here. I hope you’ve read my previous blog post; if not, please give it a read. I’m sure it will help you enjoy your trip even more. If you’re planning to visit here, I highly recommend also visiting Dupcheshwor. Both places are close, only about a 30 to 45 minute distance from each other.
From Chaughada, we turned right for Dupcheshwor. However, to reach Nuwakot Durbar, you need to continue straight on the main highway. After a short drive, you’ll reach Dhikure Bazaar, where you’ll take a left and continue ahead. This route will take you through Battar and then to Bidur Bazaar. Bidur is the headquarters of Nuwakot District.
From there, take a right and head up the hill to reach Nuwakot Durbar.
How is Nuwakot Durbar?
Have you ever been to Gorkha Durbar? This palace was also the residence of Prithvi Narayan Shah. While everyone knows that Gorkha Durbar was his home, Nuwakot Durbar, though smaller, is also beautiful. Here, we can see the traditional Nepali architecture of that era and imagine Prithvi Narayan Shah’s efforts during the unification campaign. It’s fascinating to think about how he strategized and how the warriors made war plans. From this very place, they planned their attack on the Kathmandu Valley.
This monument holds immense historical importance, and it’s crucial that we preserve it for future generations. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to see it today, and we must ensure that it remains for others to appreciate as well. It is our national pride.
Durbar Square - Now
Author's Opinion
My personal experience on this trip was sweet and memorable. I felt glad to see this restoration activity. I want to say thanks to Chinese team.
I highly recommend visiting this palace at least once in your lifetime. For anyone who is a devotee of Lord Shiva (Mahadev) or loves exploring nature, I also suggest visiting Dupcheshwor.
Thank you for reading my article.
